Description

JapaneseGaisenor "Triumphant Return"
Banner - From MacArthur's HQ. Imperial Japan's martial culture
traditionally made a ceremonial event of the return of a young man
from military or naval service.

This banner is an approximately 23" X 24", silk, single faced,
screen dyed banner with machine sewn blue brocade accent stripes on
either side. Intended for vertical display on a crossbar, the
banner is finished with a sleeve across the top edge. This flag
retains its horizontal crossbar, ferrules, cord and tassels. The
banner is marked in the lower right-hand quarter, "From:
MacArthur's HQ."

Often community organizations, especially in the early part of the
War, would organize a "Triumphant Return." Participants, escorting
the soldier or sailor from the railway station or port, often
displayed these banners. Sometimes they would be inscribed with the
new veterans' names, and unit.

The design depicts a crossed Japanese national flag and ensign
under a five-pointed, martial star, and over the character ? which
translates "congratulatory celebrations or blessings".

After General of the Army Douglas MacArthur was named the Supreme
Commander of the Allied Powers with his headquarters in Japan, he
was contacted by Dr. Clarence Rungee who asked for samples of
different "Japanese Flags." This was one of the flag provided to
the Rungee Collection by MacArthur's HQ. Quite possibly the
presence of this banner at the General's Japanese headquarters
represented a touch of jocular irony.

These "Homefront" banners would make a welcome addition to any WWII
Japanese collection.

Condition: This Banner is in good condition. It is used, worn and
soiled but otherwise complete.

This flag was formerly in the collection of Dr. Clarence Rungee,
and is accompanied by his original museum inventory sheet with
identifying information.

Auction Info

Auction Dates

June, 2020

6thSaturday

Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 2

Lot Tracking Activity: N/A

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The resulting auction of my property overwhelmed me. I want to thank Tom Slater and the Heritage team for a very satisfactory experience and profitable result with my historical consignment.
Henry L.,Lexington, KY